Trafalgar Day Parade 2017 – when does it start, what’s the route, where can I watch it and how many people take part?

TRAFALGAR Day is coming up and, like every year, it'll be marked by a march through London.

Here's everything you need to know about this year's parade in honour of the famous naval battle.

What is the Trafalgar Day parade? How many people take part?

The Trafalgar Day parade is a yearly march through London to mark the anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar.

At the battle, which took place on October 21, Admiral Lord Nelson famously defeated the French and Spanish fleets of Cape Trafalgar in South West Spain, losing his own life in the battle.

Today, the sea cadets mark that important date with a parade through London, which members of the public are welcome to watch.

Around 400 cadets are expected to take part in this year's parade.

When is the Trafalgar Day parade?

The parade is always held on the Sunday closest to October 21, which means that it will be on Sunday, 22 October this year.

It will take place from 10.30am to around 2.30pm, featuring a short march through the centre of London.

What's the 2017 Trafalgar Day parade route? Where can I watch it?

This year's parade will start at Horse Guards Parade, in Whitehall, before the cadets embark on their march at 10.30am.

The parade passes Buckingham Palace and down The Mall - before arriving in Trafalgar Square, with cadets displaying their drill skills along the way.

There will also be a performance by the Massed Band of the Sea Cadet Corps.

You can watch the cadets at any point along their parade route for free.

What is Trafalgar Day?

Trafalgar Day marks the anniversary of the famous battle which confirmed the British Empire's reign over the waves.

It also marks the death of Lord Nelson, who was fatally injured in the battle.

The officer is regarded as the greatest in the history of the Royal Navy.

So on Trafalgar day, celebrations are held across the country in honour of his life and victory, most notably on warship HMS Victory and in London's Trafalgar Square.